PARKAASH KARNA
Parkaash Karna, literally: to unfold, to reveal, to open, to enlighten.
In Sikh context, the installation of Guru Granth Sahib and its opening is called Parkaash Karna. If Guru Granth Sahib is already in the same room (or place) then the ‘Rumaala’ (covering cloth) is removed and an Ardaas is offered. After this a Vaak (a stanza by opening a page at random) is read. But, if Guru Granth Sahib had been taken away, the previous night, to some other room or place, then Ardaas will be said there and Guru Granth Sahib shall be carried in ‘Paalki’ (palanquin) or on the head (of a Sikh) with the others following the Granth to the room (or hall) where it has to be installed. Ardaas and ‘Vaak’ will follow it. This is called Parkaash Karna.
The first Parkaash of (Guru) Granth Sahib was performed at Darbar Sahib on 16 August 1604.
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)